Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid Vehicles

At Expert Automotive we don’t try to be all things to all people. This is a recipe for failure. We work on your Honda, Acura, Toyota and Lexus cars and this includes hybrids. Even in 2014 myths still surround hybrids so it is imperative to separate fact from fiction.

​All the way from the need for wall sockets, the untrue requirement that only the dealer can service and repair them to the inconvenience of fuel cells, the fact that there is so much negative gossip about hybrids is proof they are doing something right. People often have a hard time accepting change, especially when it involves something as sacred as what we drive. America has evolved around the car through the entirety of the last century, so it is understandable that many misconceptions about hybrids still exist.

5 Hybrid Myths

Myth One: Hybrids require expensive battery packs.Fact: Modern hybrids use a system known as regenerative charging. Every time brake on your hybrid, the gas engine transfers a portion of electrical power back into the battery and this automatically recharges the battery. By keeping it charged between 40 and 60 percent of its maximum capability, hybrid batteries enjoy a long life, one that is guaranteed by some manufacturers up to 100,000 miles. Yes they will someday need servicing but they are not failing at the rate the naysayers predicted.

Myth Two: Hybrids Have No Power.Fact: Performance levels in hybrids is impressive. New technology allows many of the same attributes of high-powered vehicles to be applied in hybrids. The Lexus GS 450h has more than 300 horsepower and can beat many gas powered vehicles 0 to 60. Because hybrids are known for their fuel efficiency does not mean they are underpowered. The Prius has even been known to chirp the tires.

Myth Three: Hybrids are Cost Prohibitive.​Fact: The Toyota Prius starts at about $22,000 as does the Honda Civic hybrid. While it’s true that hybrids can cost as much as $100,000 or more nobody makes the same complaint against gas powered cars. A Ferrari could set you back $500,000. Like many of the myths surrounding hybrids, this is one that is completely unfounded and based more on fear of change than fact.

Myth Four: Hybrids can only be serviced and repaired at an authorized dealer.Fact: Although these vehicles are different they are not unreasonably so. Classes are held across America and the tools and equipment required to work on these cars is readily available. The majority of hybrids still have an internal combustion component along with brakes, transmissions and items that will eventually reuire service or maintenance. We have a technician on staff that is certified in the repair and maintenance of AFVs

Myth Five: Hybrids are the Cure-all for Foreign Oil Dependency.Fact: Hybrids, although they present a clear alternative to over-consumption of fossil fuels, do not solve all of America's problems when it comes to foreign oil however it is a great start!

​The myths surrounding hybrids are slowly being erased, but as with much misinformation, it has a tendency to spread faster than the truth. The good thing about the facts, though, is that they will come out no matter how long it takes. As more people learn the truths are about hybrids, it will catch on.